The Richfield Springs Historical Association held a special meeting,
June 5. The meeting, which was a picnic and tour of the Octagon Barn on
Route 28, was convened by President Marjorie Walters at Baker’s Park
community and playhouse building at 6:30 p.m. instead of the usual 7:30
p.m. time.
After a business meeting and a reading of the minutes by Secretary
Dolores Cederberg, everyone enjoyed a picnic featuring homemade
specialties, desserts and beverages. The meeting was then adjourned for
the trip to the Octagon Barn. It was a small but enthusiastic group.
Since many people had expressed interest in the Octagon Barn, it was
surprising that the turnout wasn’t larger.
Walters had an easel set up with facts and pictures concerning the
history of the barn. In addition, she talked about the barn and
circulated a photo album with pictures of the progress of the
restoration to date. Built in 1888, it was originally owned by the
Baker family.
A few years ago, the property was purchased by Terry Damon, who was
responsible for the recent extensive restoration. Damon was in
attendance with his daughter, Jessica, and they were able to offer
loads of information about the work that had been done.
Some of the walls and the roof had to be replaced, and there was
extensive interior cabling. Looking up from the floor of the barn
toward the cupola, one can appreciate the craftsmanship of the
carpenters who built this historic building.
I noticed remnants of red paint under the eaves which was probably
the color of the structure years ago. Everyone appreciated the
beautiful views of Canadarago Lake on this extraordinarily clear, sunny
day.
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